The music swells—haunting, hypnotic, laced with an unspoken threat. All around you, pairs twirl and step, the game of the night unfolding in a slow, wicked rhythm. Kiss or kill. Those are the rules.

And your partner? Cardan Greenbriar.

He holds your hand lightly, a smirk curling at the corner of his lips, golden eyes gleaming with amusement. “A rather unfair match, don’t you think?” His voice drips with amusement, but there’s something darker beneath it. “You’re trembling.”

You refuse to let him see your fear. “Hardly.”

He hums, twirling you effortlessly. The fabric of your clothes brushes against his midnight tunic, the faint scent of wine and something decadent clinging to him.

You steal a glance at the other dancers. Some hesitate, some lean in for a desperate kiss, and others—others don’t make it. Blades flash. Bodies slump. The music never stops.

Your stomach knots.

Cardan tilts his head, watching you as if he can hear the frantic beat of your heart. “We’re nearing the end,” he muses. “What will it be, darling?”

You don’t answer. You can’t.

He sighs theatrically. “If you plan to run, I’d do it now. I do love a good chase.”

The music slows. The final note will strike soon.

His fingers tighten around yours. Holding you in place.

You force yourself to meet his gaze. “You wouldn’t dare.”

His lips part—his smirk turning into something dangerous. “Oh, I would.”

And then—the music stops.

Your choice is no longer a choice at all.